Makeover

Minjae left the audition hall, still feeling in clouds after getting the role. He knew that the role wasn't even a big one, yet he couldn't help but still be happy. 

Minjae felt renewed. He felt as if he was a new person, starting from the start, but somehow, had an idea already how everything worked.

It was as if he hadn't experienced the feeling of burnout, one of the reason why he decided to quit the industry. 

He felt an excitement he hadn't felt for years. It was something that had slowly died down as years of success took a toll on him. 

Yes, he was happy to be at the top, earning buckets of money each year, having millions of fans, and being someone that everyone looked up to.

But that success was also tiring.

Minjae had to be perfect all the time.

But the most important of them. 

He didn't know if the people around him were genuine enough to like him, or if they were just there to ride on his popularity. It was a perspective that he had just realized in this new life.

Wasn't his death a blessing in disguise?

The cons weigh out the pros, but somehow, he felt that it would be better for him to start again than live the rest of his life surrounded by fake people. 

The only advantage was, in this life, he already knew how the industry worked and he had the talents for it. What's more? He got a system that would make it easier for him!

Just then, the System's announcement replayed in his mind, and he couldn't help but feel curious about the makeover reward waiting for him. 

'Hah… It feels surreals." Minjae breathed out as he walked through the busy streets of Seoul. Somehow, more visitors were coming this fall.

When he arrived at his small, cozy apartment, Minjae tossed his ancient phone onto the couch before sitting down and taking a deep breath. 

Not even a few minutes when the system's voice sounded as if realizing that he was in his apartment already. 

[Would the Host like to begin the Basic Makeover Package?] 

"Yes," Minjae replied, wondering what exactly a "basic makeover" would look like. Will he get an instant makeover? Or would the system just give him a bunch of gift cards to use? 

Before Minjae could even think further, a soft glow of light enveloped him. His eyes widened in astonishment as a gentle warm feeling ran through his body. Out of nowhere, a mirror suddenly appeared in front of him. 

'What's happening?' his forehead creased in confusion, but he knew to trust the System. 

Just then, he saw how his body slowly changed. As if it was magic, his skin vividly became smoother and brighter. His face became free from the dark circles and rough patches that had formed after countless long and tiring nights of work.

His hair also had a bit more volume, falling in perfect waves. While his eyes became more vibrant, carrying a depth and energy that hadn't been there before.

[Makeover Complete.]

Minjae stared at his reflection, his jaw wide open, speechless. His appearance hadn't changed drastically, but it had been enhanced just enough to bring out his best and hidden features. 

'So this guy could be handsome too?' he thought, not expecting anything to begin with. 

Right now, he looked more refined and confident — exactly the kind of look an actor needed to make a strong impression.

"System," Minjae murmured with a slight grin, "I think this is exactly what I needed." he commended. He just saved a ton of money against skincare and hair products that he would need to use meticulously for months in order to work. 

[You're welcome, Host. The System is happy to help.] 

Minjae continued to admire his reflection in the mirror, almost as if he still couldn't quite believe the changes in him. He ran his fingers through his hair, feeling the softness and volume he hadn't felt in days. 

"I guess now, I just need to maintain this. That is definitely way cheaper since I only need a few items. After that, I could focus on changing my wardrobe completely and buying a new phone." Minjae mentally noted. 

Just then, another notification popped up.

[Ding!] 

[After receiving your reward, it's time for the Host to accomplish some quests.] 

[New Quest: Start Building Your Image] 

[Objective: Begin establishing your new reputation as an actor by taking professional headshots. The Host should find an affordable studio nearby and take a photo. Afterwards,send it to multiple agencies.] 

[Reward: A whole wardrobe with the Host's personal clothes selection.]

Minjae raised an eyebrow, intrigued by the quest. He hadn't expected the System to give him a quest this instant, but it seemed like a smart step forward. 

"Professional headshot, huh?" he murmured.

Professional headshots were used by actors and other celebrities to make a strong first impression to the audience and film studios. It helps them stand out, especially if the photos were good. 

There was even a saying that you wouldn't recognize a bare-faced actress if you compare her with her professional photos. 

Producers, directors, and casters also look at professional headshots when choosing someone to play a role. That was why if you have bad professional headshots, your chances of getting an offer to play a role would be less. 

It was also used by entertainment agencies to see who could they recruit in the company. 

It was very important for new actors like Minjae. 

"I'll accept this Quest then," Minjae answered. But before that, he needs to wash up and change clothes first. 

He wouldn't be able to afford the headshot with his little money, and so he needed to work.